Assistant Zoo Educator

Job Summary
This position will report to the Education & Volunteer Programs Coordinator and assist the Zoo Educator with several aspects of Education Department operations. The Assistant Zoo Educator is primarily responsible for conducting education programs for zoo guests, including off-site Zoomobile Programs, overnight Zoo Snooze Programs, Summer Zoo Camp, and more.

Essential Duties
Researches, develops and conducts programs for a variety of ages and learning styles, both on- and off-site.

Develops and delivers educational Zoomobile programs for schools, libraries, community events, nursing homes, and other community sites as required.

Develops and delivers programs for on-site groups, including guided zoo tours, scout programs, overnights, and more.

Develops and delivers programs for the public, including animal encounters, exhibit interpretations and amphitheater presentations.

Competently handles and works with Education Program Animals, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and invertebrates.

Maintains required records and reports, such as pre-visit and post-visit worksheets, animal care records, reservation sheets, attendance records, etc.

Functions as an occasional zoo spokesperson and maintains good relationships with visitors, area businesses and attractions, and represent the zoo to media contacts as needed.

Interacts with and supervises volunteers in a tactful, courteous manner.

Understands and follow written and oral instructions.

Assists with zoo’s Special Events as needed.

Operates and utilizes various types of machinery, including Zoomobile van, in performance of duties.

Minimum Qualifications Required
Education and Experience:
Two year Associate degree or higher in a related field (zoology, biology, animal science, environmental education, education, etc.) is required. Knowledge of natural history, biology and animal behavior is required. Teaching and curriculum development experience, and/or previous experience as an informal science educator or formal science educator preferred. Some handling experience with exotic animals preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of educational practices used in nature and zoological interpretations.

Ability to do public speaking and make public presentations.

Ability to prepare written materials.

Ability to maintain accurate and current records.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and the public, with a positive costumer service attitude.

Ability to deal tactfully and effectively with staff and the public.

Ability to work cohesively in a team environment.

Ability to utilize a computer and the required software.

Ability to work the required hours of the position, including regular weekends and occasional evenings/overnights for zoo programming and events.

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Deadline Note: